The Faarumai Waterfalls are on the north coast of Tahiti, just beyond the Arahoho Blowhole, reached by a short uphill path from a parking area on the coastal road. Three separate falls drop from the dense rainforest above: the main fall, Vaimahuta, descends about 40 metres into a pool that is possible to swim in when the water level is right. The two smaller falls — Haamarere Iti and Haamarere Rahi — require a longer walk (20–30 minutes) up steeper, slippery trails.
The vegetation around the falls is richly tropical — giant ferns, wild ginger, and bird-of-paradise flowers crowd the gully path. The sound of the falls and the cool air are a welcome contrast to the coastal heat. The trail to the main fall takes about 10 minutes; the extension to all three falls is worth doing if the weather has been dry, but avoid it after heavy rain, when the trails become dangerously slippery.
Combined with the nearby Arahoho Blowhole and the drive east along the north coast, the Faarumai stop makes a good half-day excursion from Papeete. No entrance fee; a small visitor facility has information boards and basic facilities.